Rutland and Oakham Bridge Club has taken on the task of working to reduce cognitive decline in the area by encouraging residents to get involved in the game. 

The Bridge Club, which has been running since 1966, taken a new focus. In converting into a charity, the club hopes to promote the games as an important tool in preventing memory loss, decline in concentration and reduction in brain functions. 

The club has recently been converted into a charity in order to better under-take this goal, as well as moving to new premises at the Kings Centre in Oakham. 

Rutland and Oakham Bridge Club (ROBC) celebrated its new charity status with an opening ceremony attended by HM Lord Lieutenant Dr Sarah Furness. (Photo: ROBC)

The opening ceremony of their new home, which was attended by HM Lord Lieutenant Dr Sarah Furness, launched an exciting fresh start for the group. 

At the opening ceremony, Dr Furness emphasised the importance of social and intellectual stimulation for an ageing population and congratulated the membership on embracing a wider vision for the club's future. 

The club hopes to support local businesses to prepare their employees for retirement, as well as offering skills and knowledge for those already retired or looking for a new challenge the opportunity to learn this globally played game. 

For those who can already play bridge, there is gentle duplicate on Mondays, competitive duplicate on Tuesdays and Fridays and Chicago on Thursdays. These all are £3 to attend to cover the table fee and includes refreshment. 

For beginners looking to learn, there is a beginners course starting in January 2025. 

To keep up to date with the club's meeting times, courses and other goings on, visit their website.